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The Drag Kings of the local non-profit organization Drag it OUT (DIO) are back to pushing the boundaries of gender impersonation performance at rehearsals for their next event, a Tribute to the Wizard of Oz. The celebration of the 70th anniversary and re-release will take place at Cinema Paradiso in Fort Lauderdale, Saturday, Sept. 26.

DIO is a multicultural esteem building organization empowering people to question gender roles. “We challenge gender stereotypes by breaking down barriers to eradicate stigma through entertainment,” says founder and local photographer Tabatha Mudra. “Participants form an increased sense of self-awareness within a supportive and accepting atmosphere while raising money for community-based causes.”

DIO doesn’t only draw from the lesbian community. Gay and straight alike take on exploring gender bending in various ways. The participants attend a five-week workshop on gender impersonation performance, then take it into the public and perform.

Embodying creativity, self-expression, community involvement and freedom, DIO supports and educates the community through workshops, mentoring and fundraising events.

All proceeds for the Wizard of Drag go to local charities- Safe Schools SOFLA, Animal Aid, and the GLCC.